The federal government has announced a work-from-home policy for employees as part of a broader austerity campaign aimed at reducing fuel consumption and easing economic pressure caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif shared the decision in a televised address to the nation after chairing a meeting on austerity measures.
He said that to reduce fuel usage, 50 percent of employees in both public and private sector institutions will work from home. Essential services, however, will not be affected by this arrangement.
The prime minister also announced that most government offices will move to a four-day work week. This change will not apply to banks, industries, or the agriculture sector, which will continue operating under their current schedules.
As part of the austerity steps, the government has imposed a complete ban on official iftar parties and dinners. Institutions have also been instructed to conduct meetings through online platforms and video links whenever possible.
In addition, the government will reduce fuel quotas for public sector institutions by 50 percent for the next two months, except for essential vehicles such as ambulances and public transport buses. The prime minister added that about 60 percent of transport used by government offices will also be taken off the roads for the same period.
The plan further includes a 20 percent reduction in government spending, excluding salaries. The purchase of new vehicles, air conditioners, and other equipment has also been banned.
The prime minister also announced restrictions on unnecessary official foreign visits by federal cabinet members, provincial chief ministers, and governors. Only travel considered essential in the national interest will be permitted.
